Abstract
This review summarizes the fundamental role of reactive oxygen species in diabetes mellitus pathophysiology. In
diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia is the main causative element of oxidative stress. Hyperglycemia is not only
responsible to generate ROS but it also attenuates mechanism of antioxidants via scavenging of substances and
enzymes. Diabetes complications caused by oxidative stress includes nephropathy, neuropathy and retinopathy. Free
radicals developed are neutralized through exogenous and endogenous antioxidants, in order to protect the cells from
their harmful toxic effects. Although, antioxidant therapeutic approach is useful, still it’s necessary to assess and
investigate the efficacy of this cure strategy.
